Best Ever Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Luscious Cream Cheese Glaze

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

The moment I pulled this Gingerbread Bundt Cake from the oven, the warm spices filled my kitchen with pure cozy magic—cinnamon, ginger, and molasses all mingling perfectly. But what truly takes this cake to the next level is the silky cream cheese glaze that drapes over every nook and cranny, adding a luscious tang that balances the rich spice beautifully. Whether you’re craving a comforting homemade treat or looking to impress guests with something both classic and a little unexpected, this Bundt cake strikes the perfect harmony between rustic charm and elegant flavor. It’s surprisingly simple to make but feels so special—ideal for those times when you want to slow down and savor a slice of seasonal bliss.

Why choose Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze?

Warm spices delight: The perfect blend of cinnamon, ginger, and molasses fills your kitchen with cozy comfort. Effortless elegance: A simple Bundt cake shape makes it look fancy without the fuss. Silky cream cheese glaze: Adds a tangy, luscious finish that balances rich spices beautifully. Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or impressing guests with classic yet unique flavors. Versatile treat: Great for holidays, cozy afternoons, or anytime you need a homemade indulgence.

Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze Ingredients

For the Gingerbread Bundt Cake

All-purpose flour – Use for a tender crumb that holds the warm spices perfectly.
Ground cinnamon – Brings that classic cozy spice that defines gingerbread.
Ground ginger – Adds the signature zing that makes this Bundt cake unforgettable.
Ground cloves – A little goes a long way to deepen the spice profile.
Baking soda – Helps the cake rise beautifully in the Bundt pan.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and intensifies flavors.
Unsalted butter – Provides rich moisture and a tender texture.
Brown sugar – Enhances the molasses flavor with its deep caramel notes.
Molasses – The star ingredient delivering that authentic gingerbread warmth.
Eggs – Bind the cake and add richness.
Buttermilk – Keeps the cake moist with a subtle tang that complements the spices.
Vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor with smooth sweetness.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

Cream cheese – Use full-fat for a rich, silky glaze that’s luxuriously tangy.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze while keeping it smooth and glossy.
Milk – Adjust to get the perfect drizzling consistency.
Vanilla extract – Adds a warm, inviting aroma that highlights the glaze’s richness.

This Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze ingredient list sets the stage for a flavor-packed, irresistibly moist treat that’s perfect for cozy moments and celebrations alike.

How to Make Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and that signature golden crust forms while you prepare the batter.
Grease a 10-inch Bundt pan generously with butter and dust with flour, tapping out any excess to prevent sticking and ensure your cake releases beautifully.
Whisk together flour, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, baking soda, and salt in a bowl until evenly mixed and aromatic, filling your kitchen with that irresistible gingerbread scent.
Cream butter and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes, scraping down the sides to ensure a smooth, uniform texture.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in molasses and vanilla until fully incorporated, resulting in a glossy, deep-brown batter.
Combine the wet ingredients with the dry mixture, stirring gently until just blended. Be careful not to overmix; small lumps are okay for tender crumb.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean and edges pull away slightly.
Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then gently invert onto a wire rack. Let it cool completely, about 30 minutes, before glazing to avoid melting.

For the Glaze:

Beat cream cheese in a bowl until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Ensure no lumps remain for a silky glaze that clings perfectly to the cake.
Stir in powdered sugar and vanilla gradually, mixing until thick and glossy. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired before thinning.
Thin the glaze with milk, adding a teaspoon at a time until it reaches a pourable, ribbon-like consistency perfect for drizzling over your cake.
Drizzle the cream cheese glaze evenly over the cooled cake, letting it cascade into every nook. Allow it to set for 5 minutes before serving.

Optional: Sprinkle chopped pecans or candied ginger for extra crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Room Temperature: Keep the Gingerbread Bundt Cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and moistness.

Fridge: If you want to store it longer, refrigerate the cake (up to 1 week) in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out, especially because of the cream cheese glaze.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: To revive your cake, gently warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This creates a comforting, fresh-baked experience despite the storage time.

Expert Tips for Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Use fresh spices: For the brightest flavor in your Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze, ensure your cinnamon, ginger, and cloves are fresh and not stale.
Don’t overmix batter: Stir just until ingredients are combined; overmixing can make the cake dense instead of tender and fluffy.
Prepare pan thoroughly: Grease and flour your Bundt pan well to prevent the cake from sticking and breaking during unmolding.
Cool completely before glazing: Applying the cream cheese glaze to a warm cake will cause it to melt and become runny instead of silky and luscious.
Adjust glaze thickness: Add milk slowly to reach a perfect drizzle consistency—too thin will run off, too thick won’t cover evenly.
Store properly: Keep the cake covered at room temperature or refrigerated to maintain moistness and freshness, especially with the cream cheese glaze.

Make Ahead Options

These Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the dry ingredients and storing the prepared batter covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before pouring it into the Bundt pan and baking as instructed. Additionally, you can make the cream cheese glaze up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and whisk in a splash of milk to loosen it before drizzling. This prep not only saves you time but ensures you have a delightful homemade treat ready to impress at a moment’s notice!

What to Serve with Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze?

The aroma of freshly baked gingerbread dance through your home, inviting you to create a delightful meal experience to match this seasonal treat.

Spiced Chai Latte: Warm and aromatic, this drink enhances the ginger and cinnamon notes in the cake, making your taste buds sing.
Homemade Applesauce: A sweet and tangy complement, its smooth texture beautifully contrasts the dense crumb of the cake.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavors and crispy texture offer a savory balance to the sweet richness of the Bundt cake.
Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds a delightful creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the cake’s spiced warmth, creating a comforting dessert experience.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkled on top, it introduces crunch and nutty flavors that elevate the luxurious cream cheese glaze.
Pumpkin Soup: This velvety soup, laced with warm spices, serves as a cozy starter, inviting your guests into the comforting theme of the meal.
Cranberry Sauce: A vibrant, tart addition that plays up the cake’s rich flavors and complements any roast on the side.
Mulled Wine: Its warm spices echo those in the Bundt cake, making it a festive accompaniment for cozy gatherings.

These pairings turn your dessert into a glorious meal and create inviting moments around the table!

Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze Variations

Feel free to take this cozy classic and make it your own with these delightful twists and substitutions!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delightful inclusive treat. It may slightly alter the texture, but the flavor remains heavenly.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick! The warmth complements the ginger and molasses beautifully.
Nutty Addition: Fold in a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch and nutty richness in every slice. It adds depth and heartiness to the cake.
Maple Glaze: Swap the powdered sugar in the glaze for maple syrup to introduce a rich, earthy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the spices.
Fruit-Filled: Incorporate diced apples or pears into the batter for a juicy surprise that enhances the cake’s moisture and adds a sweet freshness.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk for buttermilk to create a rich, dairy-free version that still satisfies those cravings.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent twist, melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the glaze for an indulgent finishing touch that turns this cake into an exquisite dessert.
Zesty Citrus: Incorporate some orange or lemon zest into the batter for a refreshing brightness that lightens the spiced flavors and creates a lovely balance.

Explore these variations and let the flavors of your imagination guide you to your perfect version of this Gingerbread Bundt Cake!

Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe FAQs

How do I know if the molasses and spices are fresh enough for the best flavor?
Fresh spices should smell vibrant and pungent—if your cinnamon or ginger smells faint or stale, it’s time to refresh. Molasses should be thick and dark; if it’s watery or has dark spots all over, opt for a new bottle to keep your cake bursting with authentic warmth.

What’s the best way to store leftover Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature, covered loosely with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days to keep that tender crumb moist. If your kitchen is warm or you want it to last longer, refrigerate up to 1 week, ensuring the cream cheese glaze stays fresh and silky.

Can I freeze the Gingerbread Bundt Cake, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! First, cool the cake completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight and let it come to room temperature before serving. Reheat slices gently in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds for that fresh-baked feel.

What if my cake turns out dense or dry?
Dense texture often comes from overmixing the batter or too much flour. Stir just until combined to keep the crumb tender. For dryness, double-check your oven temperature; an oven running hot can dry out the cake. Also, don’t skip the buttermilk—it’s key for moistness and subtle tang that balances the spices beautifully.

Is this Gingerbread Bundt Cake safe for pets or those with allergies?
This recipe includes common allergens like eggs, dairy (butter, cream cheese, milk), and wheat flour. It’s not safe for pets, especially due to spices, molasses, and dairy. For allergies, consider substitutions like gluten-free flour blends and dairy-free alternatives, but note texture and flavor may vary. I recommend testing small batches if you’re adapting recipes for special diets.